Berkelytown Heritage Park

Berkleytown Heritage Park is a significant addition to Ashland, Virginia, dedicated to honoring the rich history of the Berkleytown neighborhood, a historically African American community established in the early 20th century during the era of segregation. Recognized for its cultural importance, Berkleytown was officially listed on both the Virginia Landmarks Register and the National Register of Historic Places in 2022.

Situated on 3.5 acres of land donated by Habitat for Humanity, the park offers a serene environment featuring meandering walking trails, benches, and educational signage that narrates the neighborhood’s history . Visitors can engage with interactive exhibits, including QR codes linking to oral histories collected by Randolph-Macon College students, providing personal insights into the lives of Berkleytown residents.

Art installations by local artists Tim Harper and Matt Lively further enrich the park, celebrating the community’s legacy through creative expression. The park also pays tribute to significant local institutions, such as the historic John M. Gandy High School, central to Black education in Ashland during segregation.

Berkleytown Heritage Park serves not only as a place of reflection and recreation but also as a living museum, preserving and sharing the stories of a resilient community for future generations.

The trail is ADA accessible and may be accessed from Archie Cannon Road or Berkleytown Street.

Learn more on our StoryMap!